Barcelona are working towards signing up Manchester United target Samuel Umtiti on a new contract before the start of the World Cup.
The Catalan giants have faced difficulties in negotiations with the defender’s representatives, especially with Manchester United being interested in the Frenchman.
Jose Mourinho has been in touch with the central defender's agents and in addition to triggering his €60m release clause, Manchester United are also prepared to offer him a contract worth €9m per season.
The figures on offer at Manchester United have increased the pressure on Barcelona, but according to Spanish daily Mundo Deportivo, the club are confident of getting a deal over the line soon.
Barcelona technical secretary Robert Fernandez has been in touch with the player and has made sure that the defender is leaning towards continuing at the Nou Camp.
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There is more optimism in the Barcelona camp about signing Umtiti and they are working towards agreeing a new contract with the defender before the start of the World Cup.
While still not ready to meet the Frenchman’s contract demands, Barcelona are prepared to offer him a significant raise to continue with the club.
The Catalan giants are also planning to pin in a €250m release clause in the defender’s proposed new contract.
